Mechanics Tools
Primary 6 · Science and Elementary Technology
Mechanics Tools
Lesson 5 of 5
13 min
Let's begin
Before every job, Gatete does the same things: overall on, boots on, goggles ready, and a quick look round the floor. Mugisha thought it was a waste of time.
Then one day a chip of metal flew off a bolt Gatete was cutting and bounced off his goggles. "That," said Gatete, tapping the goggles, "is why I am still able to see you."
A precaution is something you do before an accident happens, to stop it from happening or to make it less serious.
| Protective item | What it protects you from |
|---|---|
| Goggles | Metal chips, sparks and dust flying into the eyes. |
| Mask | Breathing in dust, paint spray and fumes. |
| Gloves | Cuts, burns, splinters and dirty grease on the hands. |
| Overall or apron | Oil, sparks and sharp edges on the body and clothes. |
| Boots or safety shoes | Heavy tools or parts falling on the feet, and sharp scraps on the floor. |
| Helmet | Objects falling from above, where people work at height. |

Used engine oil is poisonous to soil, water and animals. Never pour it on the ground or into a drain. Collect it in a closed container and take it to a collection point. Scrap metal can be sold for recycling instead of being thrown away.
Tip
Dress from head to toe before you start: eyes (goggles), nose (mask), hands (gloves), body (overall), feet (boots).
Then do the job, then clean up. Dress, work, tidy.
Try each one first, then tap Show answer to check.
Mutesi is going to sand and spray-paint an old bicycle frame. Which two protective items are most important for her?
Answer: A mask, so she does not breathe in dust and paint spray, and goggles to protect her eyes.
How should you pass a screwdriver to a friend?
Answer: Handle first, with the tip pointing down or away from both of you.
Oil has spilled on the garage floor. What should be done straight away, and why?
Answer: Wipe it up at once, because someone could slip, fall and be hurt.
What should a mechanic do with old engine oil?
Answer: Collect it in a closed container and take it to a collection point, never pour it on the ground.
What you learned today
Sources and credits
This lesson adapts CC BY-SA material and is shared under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Quick check
Match each protective item to what it protects you from.
Tap one on the left, then its partner on the right.